Mark Your Calendars for April 12!

Skywatchers, alert! This weekend promises to dazzle the night sky with April’s Full Moon, famously dubbed the Pink Moon or Paschal Moon, set to rise on Saturday evening.

What Makes This Moon Unique?

Before you get too excited, let's clear up a common misconception: despite its name, this moon won’t actually appear pink. What makes it special is its status as the smallest full moon of the year, a phenomenon referred to as a "micromoon." This occurs when the moon reaches apogee, its farthest point from Earth in its orbit, resulting in a sight that’s slightly smaller and dimmer than usual — a fact that might be tricky to notice without a keen eye.

When to Catch the Best View!

Prepare for peak lunar illumination at 8:22 p.m. EDT (0022 GMT on April 13). To snag the best view, direct your gaze towards the eastern horizon around sunset. In New York City, for instance, the moon will rise at 7:30 p.m. EDT, just before sunset, providing a stunning backdrop as it ascends into the twilight, nestled among the stars of the constellation Virgo, nearby the bright blue-white star Spica.

A Special Treat for Certain Regions!

Skywatchers in Central and South America, along with parts of southern Africa, are in for an additional spectacle as this full moon will briefly cover Spica in an event known as an occultation. Timing will vary by location, with major cities like Buenos Aires, Caracas, and Montevideo enjoying this remarkable event.

Religious Significance of the Pink Moon

The Pink Moon holds deeper meanings in various traditions. In the Christian calendar, the Paschal Moon is key in determining Easter's date, which will fall on April 20 in 2025, the first Sunday post- the first full moon after the vernal equinox.

The Meaning Behind the Name 'Pink Moon'

So why is April's full moon called the Pink Moon? The name is inspired by moss pink, or creeping phlox, among the first wildflowers to bloom in early spring across North America. This moniker, passed down through Native American traditions and popularized by the Old Farmer's Almanac, reflects the seasonal changes celebrated by various cultures.

Tips for Capturing the Perfect Shot!

Want to photograph this celestial beauty? It’s easier than you might think! Use a tripod to prevent blur, and if you have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, opt for a telephoto lens (200mm or longer) for enhanced detail. Set your camera to manual: ISO 100–400, aperture f/8 to f/11, and a shutter speed of around 1/125 to 1/250 seconds. To add drama, include silhouettes of buildings or trees in your frame. Smartphone users should try using night mode or a manual camera app for the best results. Remember, the ideal shots often come just after moonrise, when the moon is low against a vibrant sky.

Quick Recap of April’s Full Moon

This Saturday, April 12, prepare to witness the Pink Moon rising at 8:22 p.m. EDT. As the smallest full moon of 2025, it’s a celestial event you won’t want to miss, even if it doesn’t glow pink!